John Williams to score new Star Wars movies?

John Williams has commented on the likelihood of him returning to write the film scores for the new Star Wars sequels.

Film composing legend John Williams has told of his intention to return to the Star Wars franchise when the first of the previously announced sequels arrive in 2015.

Introducing a recent performance of his music from the original Star Wars films earlier this week, Williams commented: "Now we’re hearing of a new set of movies coming in 2015, 2016… so I need to make sure I’m still ready to go in a few years for what I hope would be continued work with George [Lucas]."

However, with Star Wars creator George Lucas' role being reduced to that of consultant on the new Star Wars movies, online speculation that new director JJ Abrams will use his regular composer Michael Giacchino for the scores is rife.

The new Star Wars movies, episodes VII, VIII and IX in the long-running sic-fi series, are to be made by Disney after the company bought Lucasfilm last year. Original stars Harrison Ford, Mark Hamill and Carrie Fisher are believed to be returning to their roles as well.

John Williams' score for Steven Spielberg's Lincoln is one of the nominees for this years Oscar for Best Original Score.